The Perfect Vehicle for Camping

September 11, 2017 1 Comment

No, you don’t need a brand new Toyota 4runner or Ford Raptor to go camping. Would it be nice to have a custom built vehicle with amazing ground clearance, giant tires, LED bars, and loads of cargo space? Of course! But, that is not what makes a memorable camping experience.

Majority of camping destinations do not require a 4x4 vehicle. Most of the roads are paved and can be easily accessed by almost any vehicle. I used to own a 2007 Hyundai Elantra. Was that car suited for the outdoors? No way! But that did not stop me. I had so many wonderful memories of loading my old car for camping trips until there was no room to breath. These were the best years! On gravel, my car was extremely bumpy. Traction was terrible.The tires would occasionally rub on the wheel wells. Aside from that, I was surrounded by my best friends and had the most unforgettable camping experiences

Media in general gives off a perception that you need an “outdoorsy” vehicle to go camping. For example, a Ford Fusion commercial will target city folks. A Subaru Outback commercial will target people that love the outdoors. Of course an Outback will generally perform better in the outdoors than an average sedan. And if you have an ability to buy a vehicle that is best suited for more rugged terrain, you should definitely acquire it. But if you do not, do not let that stop you from enjoying nature. I have owned a Ford Fusion and now I have a Subaru Outback. After upgrading to a Subaru Outback, my camping experience was not necessarily better just because I got an outdoorsy vehicle. That is not what completed my camping experience.

Ford Fusion

My Old Ford Fusion

Certainly there are places where a high performance vehicle is required. A front wheel drive car will simply have trouble going on steep hills or on rocky terrain. My dream vehicle is a Ford Raptor. It has amazing ground clearance, completely insane suspension, and every possible upgrade in the world. It is a perfect vehicle for camping and any outdoor activity. It truly is. But, a distinction must be made. It is a WANT, not a NEED.

A perfect vehicle for camping is the vehicle you currently have. Why? What is important in a camping trip? The fancy gear that you have or the time that you spend with the people you care about?

Subaru Outback

My Current Subaru Outback



1 Response

Off2Geo
Off2Geo

September 12, 2017

Had an Izuzu Trooper II once and loved it. Wouldn’t mind having one again. I can’t really think of anything off the top of my head. It would be nice whatever it was, to be able to sleep in it comfortably if needed. There is always going some trade-offs.

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